Greco sues, Watson avoids...
& why isn't APD saying what crimes it solves?
Good afternoon APN Nation! I took yesterday off because mom was in town from New Jersey. Among other things we went to Uptown Cheapskate to try to find something I can wear to an upcoming David Bowie-themed wedding reception at Stubb's. I think I'm halfway there.
I'm going to watch the presidential debate at Skinny's Off Track Bar on E. 12th St tonight. Say hi if you see me!
Doug Greco sues
Mayoral candidate Doug Greco is suing the city of Austin in federal court over a rule that limits the amount of money candidates can raise from out-of-town donors. Greco reported raising $88,334 in the first half of the year and 59% (!) of that came from friends, family and well-wishers outside of Austin, at least according to a complaint filed against him for violating city campaign finance rules. The rules cap total out-of-town contributions at $46,000.
Greco contends the restriction is an unconstitutional speech infringement. Given the current Supreme Court's hostility to campaign finance restrictions, he might have a good shot in court.
As I wrote last week, former Council Member Don Zimmerman succeeded in getting a couple of other city campaign finance rules struck down in court. What I didn't realize is that Zimmerman also challenged the geographic rule. The courts rejected that challenge because they found he lacked standing –– he had not been "injured" by the restriction because he had not exceeded the $46,000 limit.
Greco, on the other hand, is undoubtedly injured by the rule, so the courts may be more likely to hear him out.
